Opaque blackberry-colored core with deep, boysenberry rim. Forward in fragrance with a captivating, youthful grapey-ness. Sous bois, cassis and slate dominate the nose. Lightly candied palate with some creamy viscosity and an overall round mouthfeel. Mulberry fruit and black plum preserves lead the flavors on the palate. Though the acidity is moderate, it works well with the tugging tannins to balance the mouthfeel very well. The length is medium and is strong on minerality. If there is new oak here, it is finely integrated. Drink now to 2017 but will surely hold longer.

— Published (8/27/2012)